MINI E Police Car

The AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper Police is based on the MINI E - the electric version of the model - and was premiered at the 2010 Essen Motor Show.

The BMW MINI E is an all-electric car that is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp with 162 lb-ft of torque. The battery can be fully charged through a standard outlet in about eight hours. But there is also a higher amperage charger available that will be installed in the customer’s garage enabling a full recharge in just 2.5 hours. BMW claims that the lithium-ion battery has an estimated driving range of 150 miles, and that is plenty to get around town all day. In acceleration, the MINI E can sprint from 0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 95 mph.

The vehicle is part of the Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner’s. (VDAT) TUNE IT SAFE! project, being the sixth release of the campaign, which aims to combine high tuning standards with a maximum safety level.

Dressed up in police guise, the car features modified fascias, aerodynamic side skirts, a ventilated hood, and 18-inch alloy wheels with Hankook tires. Inside, the cabin boasts blue trim, aluminum pedals and custom floor mats.

Interior upgrades includes traditional AC Schnitzer aluminum pedals, footrest and e-brake handle. All of these modifications are currently (or soon-to-be) available for any of the MINI models.




Press Release

Two strong partners for the future: the Electric MINI and AC Schnitzer

MINI Tuning Specialist supports the initiative: "TUNE IT! SAFE!" by the VDAT by kitting out the emission-free concept car

The TUNE IT! SAFE! initiative by the Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner e.V. (VDAT) impressively shows the future of tuning with its sixth campaign vehicle - an electric MINI in Police Look. Every year since 2004, a special concept car has been presented which meets both the high demands of tuning fans and maximum safety standards.

The campaign, supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development, shows that the yearning for individualisation can continue to be met in the future.

AC Schnitzer, more than almost any other tuning specialist for the MINI brand, stands for individuality and safety. Consequently, the Aachen-based company has largely taken responsibility for the MINI and provided a uniquely spectacular campaign vehicle. The MINI E in Police Look was presented for the first time at the Essen Motor Show 2010 and has since appeared as a symbolic vehicle at numerous shows and tuning events.

The BMW Group is the first manufacturer to apply the latest state of lithium ion technology in a totally electric powered vehicle. So the MINI E lives up to its name - "minimalism" - in terms of drive technology too, thanks to a totally emission-free vehicle. New drive systems have been equipped with complex elements, so the use of safe and reliable products is particularly important here. But there's no lack of sporting performance either, thanks to the tuning package from

AC Schnitzer. The racing suspension takes the MINI perfectly through corners, and the front and rear skirts and bonnet vents both optimise road holding and enhance the styling of the concept car.

The "Police Look" is provided by the latest signalling system from Hella on the roof, and the blue paintwork by AC Schnitzer in conjunction with special stickering from Foliatec.

The Hankook tyres have been given an extra touch by the specialists at AC Schnitzer: in combination with the AC Schnitzer alloy wheels "MI 2" (7.5J x 18"), they transfer the 204 electric HP of the MINI safely to the road.
To enjoy unrestricted driving comfort while being prepared for every situation: this ambition is achieved by the high performance brake system from AC Schnitzer with 4-pot fixed calipers on the front axle. The slotted, internally vented brake discs respond promptly and with precision. At the same time, the high performance brake system is characterised by excellent deceleration values after sustained use, in extreme heat and in the pouring rain. The generously dimensioned discs at 328 x 28 millimetres energetically scrub off the speed with a stable pressure point even after the twentieth downhill hairpin.

AC Schnitzer also shows that safe driving can be combined with individual styling in its design of the interior equipment. The interior is decorated with a pedal set, foot rest and handbrake handle of aluminium. Here, as in all other areas, extracts from AC Schnitzer's wide product range are demonstrated. All the AC Schnitzer accessories are available immediately with TÜV certification, even though the MINI E is not yet available commercially but is well on the way to series production. This almost goes without saying for specialists who have long since made the safe future of tuning their corporate objective.

KICHERER SLS 63 Supersport

German tuner Kicherer has released their program for the Mercedes-Benz SLS 63 AMG. Upgrades include a carbon fiber front spoiler, a stainless steel exhaust system, a new rear diffuser, forged RS-1 wheels and a few carbon fiber interior parts. To top it off, they also include a lift-up system with this package that raises the vehicle by 1.2 inches at a touch of a button. As many owners of lowered sports cars would tell you, this system will often come quite handy.

Applying lessons learned from its previous modified Mercs, the tuner has upgraded the 6.2-liter V-8 engine to the tune of 601 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, lifting performance of the SLS AMG into true supercar territory.

While the Mercedes SLS AMG standard develops 571 hp all, 2010 Mercedes SLS 63 Supersport by Kicherer package goes to the impressive 610 hp and torque to 670 nm. This increase was driven by a stainless steel sport exhaust and performance optimization package. In addition to good performance increase Mercedes SLS AMG also gets a new lift top-line sport chassis, allowing up to 30 mm increased, a feature that makes 2010 Mercedes SLS 63 Supersport by Kicherer easier to run on those annoying speed bumps. On the other hand, are the same sports suspension lowers the button is easy to maneuver through the garage.

The aerodynamic package includes a front spoiler lip in carbon and read diffuser fins in carbon. The package is finished by RS-1 multi-part forged wheels and a series of interior decorative parts in carbon.




Press Release

KICHERER Fahrzeugtechnik SLS 63 Supersport

KICHERER - ART MEETS FUTURE

KICHERER Fahrzeugtechnik company from Stockach am Bodensee and photography master of international renown Frank Luger of Art-Photography from Albstadt have been a perfectly aligned team since 2005.

In the course of these years, F. Luger developed a unique image style for presenting the KICHERER-High end vehicles. It perfectly mirrors the company's philosophy.

Our philosophy and our objective is clearly emphasizing the visual basic forms by higher-quality sportive highlights. The complete hand-made KICHERER performance programme consistently presents the sportively dynamic character.

The design objective of the SLS 63 AMG is perfect combination of functional quality, craftsmanship and sophisticated design.

When these requirements are met, we give our vehicles the >>SUPERSPORT<<>

EXCLUSIVE for the SLS:
In cooperation with the KICHERER technology partner KW Automotive GmbH, the lift up system for the SLS 63 AMG was developed. This complete chassis removes the obstacles previously presented by parking garages, garage entries or steps. The vehicle with the KICHERER lift-up threaded chassis is raised by up to 30 millimetres on the push of a button to easily drive over obstacles. We would also like to emphasize the excellent driving characteristics in quick bends. The driving feeling is much more sportive and secure without losing any driving comfort.

Additional technical conversation measures

• KICHERER RS-1 multi-part forged wheels "hand-made"
• KICHERER performance optimisation for approx. 610 PS/670Nm
• KICHERER lift-up threaded sports chassis
• KICHERER stainless steel sports end pipe covers, 4 pipes
• KICHERER front spoiler lip in carbon
• KICHERER read diffuser fins in carbon
• KICHERER interior decorative parts in carbon

Wimmer Ariel Atom

German tuner Wimmer RS has added a few extra horses to the Ariel Atom 3 that go a long way on this very lightweight car.

The vehicle has been targeted by Wimmer RS, receiving a power boost in order to deliver a top experience. The aftermarket developer has played with the turbo, fuel pump, air intake, has installed a new exhaust system that uses Rennkat components and has remapped the ECU. The vehicle’s powerplant now allows the driver to play with 340 hp and 282 Nm (208 lb-ft).

With a total weight of 469 kilos and a two-liter four-cylinder Honda engine with 300 ponies kicking under the hood, the Atom was bound to get some sort of power boost eventually. Winner RS has done that with an engine optimization software, a modified supercharger, fuel pump conversion, and sport exhaust system done together with Rennkat.

The Wimmer RS Ariel Atom is able to get from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and to 200 km/h in just 7.1 seconds. The Wimmer RS Ariel Atom features unique internal shock absorbers, a push-rods operated suspension system, and damper struts. The Wimmer RS Ariel Atom price has not been announced.




Press Release

Extra power - high performance sports car Ariel Atom 3 300 by Wimmer RS
Wimmer RS has tuned the Atom 3 300 up to 340 hp

The Ariel Atom is one of the fastest street cars, maybe the strongest sprint 4-cylinder series car in the world. The standard Atom 3 300 is driven by a turbocharged up to 300 hp two-liter four-cylinder Honda engine. With a weight of only 469 kg, it can easily keep up not only with super sports cars - after the power increase at Wimmer RS it can put some of them in the shade.

A vehicle like a rocket: only 469 kg weight, no doors, no luxury. The Atom is equipped with the unique internal shock absorbers. The suspension is operated via push-rods - the damper struts are at the top. The tube frame replaces the body. This provides rigidity, low weight and maximum safety for corner speeds.

The power increase at Wimmer RS includes the following reconstruction measures: Wimmer engine optimization software, compressor overhaul, fuel pump conversion and sport exhaust system together with Rennkat. Whopping 340 hp and 282 Nm are the result. With such powerful Japanese engine in the rear, this 469-kg rocket accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds - Atom achieved 200 km/h in just 7.1 seconds

Direct air suction sounds like a hissing, and by this modification, exhaust system with optimized back pressure from Wimmer RS allows to hide the entire power behind the seat, so you will hear a wonderful sound.

Photos by: Jordi Miranda

For more information please contact:

Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Solingen GmbH
Löhdorferstr. 231
42699 Solingen
Tel.: 0212 - 264 3000
Fax: 0212 - 264 3488
www.wimmer-rst.de
info@wimmer-rst.de

Piecha Design Mercedes SLK RS Final Edition

The Mercedes-Benz SLK has just received a new modification pack from Piecha Design. One of those tuners is Piecha Design who have prepared the “Final Performance RS EDITION,” in order to say good bye to a pretty cool car.

Available in Fire Opal Red or Diamond White semi-matte, the RS features a revised front fascia, aggressive side skirts, and a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser. Other goodies include black anodized accents, LED daytime driving lights, H&R lowering springs, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

The PIECHA Mercedes SLK RS has been equipped with a quadruple-flow sport exhaust system. The PIECHA Mercedes SLK RS program also includes sports leather seats, the Vario roof comfort package and H&R lowering springs. The PIECHA Mercedes SLK RS sits on 8.5x19 wheels and with 225/35R 19 tires at the front and 9.5x20 inch wheels and 265/25R20 tires at the rear.




Press Release

PIECHA Design Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 Final Performance RS Edition

The best saved for last: The final performance RS edition by Piecha Design

While the production of the highly successful SLK series R171 was just suspended, the new edition of the small Mercedes-Benz roadster should be completed in about half a year - after all, only masked prototypes are currently completing their laps. In order to cover the truth, the Mercedes-Benz operator PIECHA Design - in cooperation with the Swiss general importer of the company, the Auto Trachsler AG from Wetzikon - produces a unique final edition series.

One takes a brand-new and fully equipped SLR R171, garnished it with the best design programmes from PIECHA and painted the car in one colour, which was not available during the entire SLK R171time. Thus, the recipe for the PIECHA Design calls for "Final Performance RS EDITION," which is selectively available in fire opal red semi-matt with black top or diamond white metallic semi-matt. The interior is equipped with matching black nappa leather and red resp. white seams.

Externally, the "Final Performance RS Edition" is recognisable by the distinctive front-spoiler bumpers with integrated LED daytime running lights, the wedge-shaped side skirts with air intakes, as well as the
rear bumpers with a wide grid core and diffuser vane and the rear spoiler lip that reaches the angle of the trunk. In order to keep up acoustically with the visual appearance, the standard exhaust system
is being replaced with a quadruple-flow sport exhaust system - also from PIECHA - that gives the SLK a pithy and voluminous voice.

Every "Final Performance RS Edition" is equipped with the legendary PIECHA power converter, which gives the entire engine performance immediately into the vehicle - without needing a second to realise what is happening and without noticeable inertia of the series-production model - so that the performance can meet the demands of the visual and acoustic presence.

The spontaneous and agile power performance pushes the driver vehemently into the sports leather seat. As "must have" product, the Vario roof comfort package must not be missed of course. It enables to open and close the Vario roof of the roadster via a vehicle key from a distance of up to 50 metres or alternatively while driving with just one click (up to 60km/h) - without the hassle of holding the roof button.

For optimal road contact, lowering springs from H&R are used in PIECHA Design "Final Performance RS Edition," which perfectly stage the elegant PIECHA dp2 Phantom rims in the extravagant tyre/wheel combination 8.5x19 inches with 225/ 35R 19 tire in the front as well as 9.5x20 inches with 265/25R20 Pneus tyres and an incredible 100 mm rim base at the rear wheel.

Perfectly shaped, black anodised aluminium aerowings embellish the ventilation grilles of the bonnet. A special wind deflector with the signed "Final Performance RS Edition" logo and black perforated plate sidepiece end piece shows elegantly that this is about a subtle edition with a stunning design.

PIECHA Design and Auto Trachsler offer this "Final Performance RS Edition" transition to this perfectly custom-made vehicle to every customer who already has a SLK R171. In this case, it does not play a role whether this relates to a pre-facelift model, AMG styling, a SLK 55 or a facelift model. The spoilers are custom-made, have headlight cleaning flaps as well as PDC (if available) and can be individually painted and assembled in the standard colours of the model.

Brabus Mercedes SLS Widestar to debut at Essen Motorshow

Tuner BRABUS has released the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Widestar edition at the Essen Motor Show.

The red AMG sports car is outfitted with the exterior carbon fiber body kit, lowering module, Brabus exhaust system and a set of Matt Dark Grey rims sizing 9.5Jx20 in front and 11Jx21 on the rear axle. The setup of the red car is a great example of a superb tuning style. The mixture between the rims, the carbon fiber parts and the red body color gives the SLS AMG a more exclusive muscular look.

The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Widestar offer the driver can adjust the suspension’s height with the touch of a button to make the car sportier or more comfortable than the stock SLS. Stiffer sway bars are also on the menu. It is because the ride height was lowered by 30 mm and a new, height-adjustable suspension was developed in collaboration with Bilstein.

A proper set of wheels strongly define the Brabus brand and in the case of the Widestar SLS, the customers are offered custom tailored ultra-light 20- and 21-inch front and rear Monoblock F Platinum Edition forged wheels, which appear wrapped around in 275/30 ZR20 and 295/25 ZR21 Yokohama rubber. The weight is also reduced by bigger and lighter new rims, which offer an improved handling, according to the tuner’s official reports. The power will be provided by the same 6.2-liter V8 engine, which received a lighter and high-performance titanium exhaust system with sound management, adding 10 hp. Premium upholstery, made from fine leather and Alcantara is offered by Brabus for the interior.




Press Release

Lending an exclusive automobile an even more dominant presence is the domain of BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com). The new BRABUS WIDESTAR wide version represents a custom-tailored designer suit for the Mercedes SLS AMG. In addition to the extravagant high-tech carbon-fiber body program for the gullwing the tuner also offers ultralight forged wheels, an electronically adjustable Ride Control smooth-ride suspension, a titanium high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled sound management and custom BRABUS interiors.

To give the SLS an even more muscular appearance the BRABUS designers have developed custom-tailored BRABUS WIDESTAR components for the rear axle. Like all other body components they are made from extremely light yet very strong carbon fibers identical to the ones used in Formula 1 racing. The add-on parts for the rear fenders and the rear fascia create an even more spectacular look and make room for special wheels that widen the rear track by 20 millimeters for even further improved driving dynamics.

The suspension engineers developed custom-tailored versions of the ultralight BRABUS Monoblock F PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels in sizes 9.5Jx20 in front and 11Jx21 on the rear axle for the wide version of the SLS. These wheels are available with a brushed-design or ceramics-polished surface and can also be painted in any desired color. The staggered wheels with 20- and 21-inch diameters on front and rear axles further emphasize the wedge-shaped look of the sports car.

Despite the wheels’ bigger size they deliver a weight reduction of up to 12 percent compared to the SLS production wheels. The reduced unsprung weight further results in even more agile handling. BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA supply the optimal high-performance tires in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 21.

The wide version is rounded out by aerodynamic-enhancement components developed in the wind tunnel. All BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement components are made from carbon fibers and are available with a matte or glossy clear-coated finish for a true racing look. Optionally these components can be painted in body or contrasting color.

To further reduce lift on front and rear axle BRABUS equips the SLS with a front spoiler for the production front fascia, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser. Together these components create an even better aerodynamic balance. Two BRABUS covers for the upper air dams of the bumper and side air outlets for the rear fascia are further visual details of the BRABUS WIDESTAR version.

The work of the BRABUS designers also gives the sides of the gullwing more profile and further improved aerodynamic efficiency. The rocker panels were sculpted to optimize the airflow between front and rear axle and to create a perfect transition to the WIDESTAR components on the rear axle. Integrated entrance lights ensure safe entering and exiting of the vehicle in the dark.

The BRABUS air outlets for the front fenders add more of sporty touches. At night they draw attention with their integrated blue-illuminated BRABUS logos that are activated via the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle.

The ride-height lowering by up to 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) also plays an important role in the striking appearance of the BRABUS-modified SLS. The BRABUS suspension is height-adjustable and was developed in cooperation with technology partner BILSTEIN. At the push of a button its integrated Ride Control function also offers a smoother ride than the production car. From the cockpit the driver can at any time – even while driving – switch between damper settings that offer a more comfortable or a sportier ride than the production car.

For sporty-minded SLS owners BRABUS offers stiffer sway bars for front and rear axle that reduce body roll for even more precise handling.

The BRABUS high-performance exhaust system with four slanted exhaust tips with diameters of 84 millimeters (3.3 inches) is somewhat atypical for traditional tuning. Its sound management, controlled by the driver and activated by a pneumatic flap, includes a ‘coming home’ setting that is quieter than the production exhaust. In ‘sport’ mode the 6.3-liter eight-cylinder engine produces an even more powerful exhaust note than with the production exhaust. The BRABUS exhaust system is manufactured from extremely lightweight titanium and weighs 12 kilograms (26 lbs.) or 40 percent less than the production exhaust. Another welcome by-product of this exhaust is an increase in power output by 10 hp / 7.4 kW.

BRABUS offers a multitude of exclusive custom interior options for the two-seater car as well. Carbon-fiber inlays in any desired color and matte anodized aluminum pedals and foot rest add sporty highlights.

The ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel is made from a combination of leather and Alcantara and provides especially good grip for further improved road feedback. The speedometer with 400-km/h scale (250 mph) already hints at the car’s future performance with BRABUS engine tuning.

The BRABUS upholstery shop offers a sheer endless multitude of colors and designs for the masterfully crafted SLS interiors made from the finest leathers and Alcantara. These interiors can be custom-tailored to suit each SLS owner’s personal taste down to the last detail.